Our trainee journalist Laura Ndanuko visited Mosob Bar& Restaurant in the heart of Glasgow and discovered the story behind this authentic Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine.
by Laura Ndanuko
Nestled among the bustling streets of Glasgow lies a culinary gem unlike any other: Mosob. Named after the Eritrean symbol of prosperity, unity, and creativity, Mosob is more than just a restaurant—it’s a testament to the resilience, vision, and culinary prowess of the founders, two sisters.
One of them is Hewi Ghidey, whose journey began in her homeland of Ethiopia, where she worked as a hairdresser, honing her skills and dreaming of a better future. However, circumstances led her to seek asylum in Scotland, where she found herself navigating unfamiliar territory, both geographically and culturally.
Despite the challenges she faced, Hewi refused to let the circumstances define her. Drawing upon her expertise as a hairdresser, she sought employment in the vibrant city of Glasgow, determined to rebuild her life from the ground up. During this time, she encountered a Zimbabwean woman who would change the course of her destiny.
Employed in a Zimbabwean woman’s salon, Hewi found not only a source of income but also a mentor and a friend. Inspired by her employer’s entrepreneurial spirit, Hewi began to envision a future where she could be her own boss, charting her own course in the world of business.
With unwavering determination and the guidance of her mentor, Hewi took the leap and opened her own salon in Glasgow. Her establishment quickly became a beacon of excellence, attracting clients from all walks of life who were drawn to her skill, professionalism, and infectious positivity.
But Hewi’s ambitions didn’t stop there. Drawing upon her culinary heritage and inspired by the flavours of her homeland, she set her sights on a new venture: opening a restaurant that would not only showcase the vibrant cuisine of Eritrea but also serve as a space where Ethiopian and Eritrean communities could feel at home and connected.
‘” When I was starting the restaurant, I was thinking about Ethiopian and Eritrean people; I opened the restaurant to serve people from my community.’’
Community, Cuisine and Connection: The Essence of Mosob
Stepping into Mosob, one is enveloped by a sense of tranquillity, where delicate touches adorn the space with elegance. Clusters of Mesob, a ‘breadbasket’ where Ethiopians and Eritreans keep the injera, a traditional flat bread on which their delicious stews are served, are beautifully woven and carefully placed, serving as focal points amidst the inviting ambience.
But more importantly, the Mesob is round, and as we sit around it at mealtimes, it signifies the communal eating that makes Ethiopian meals so culturally and socially important.
The images on the walls are carefully curated and not overwhelming, adding charm to the restaurant and creating a space where we feel both welcomed and at ease.
However, the journey to success was not without its challenges. Hewi recalls the arduous process of transforming her vision into reality, from investing in space and decorating it without any immediate returns to facing the slow pace of business in the first year. “Two of my sisters and I took a whole year to fix the restaurant during the COVID-19 lockdown, and we have now been serving for the last two years.”
When Hewi set out to open the restaurant, her goal was clear: to create a space for Ethiopian and Eritrean communities to feel at home. Little did she know, her vision would not only resonate with her intended audience but also capture the hearts and palates of locals and travellers from beyond.
Mosob quickly became a beloved fixture in the local dining scene. On my visit there, I spoke to Barbara, a resident of Glasgow who is originally from East Africa. “I loved the food, and I also felt that it was a place where I could invite a group of friends for a meal, too. I love to experience new cultures and food.” She added that Mosob did not disappoint.
Mesob is central to the Mosob culinary experience; it symbolises unity and togetherness. The platter is usually laden with an array of delectable meats, vegetables, and spices served atop injera, a traditional sour flatbread. Each bite is a journey through Eritrea’s vibrant flavours and culinary traditions, inviting diners to savour the richness of the cuisine and the warmth of the hospitality.
For many diners from the Western world, the communal dining style can be a source of curiosity. Staff are often faced with the question of why they are served on one plate. To Hewi, the answer is simple yet profound: “Eating together is more than just sharing a meal”, she explained. “It’s about cooking together as a community, forging connections, and celebrating our shared humanity. In Eritrean culture, food is meant to be enjoyed in the company of others, and the Mesob symbolises our collective bond.”
I experienced Hewi’s hospitality and observed her hands-on approach, from personally attending to each table on a busy evening to ensuring that the meal’s presentation was impeccable. The restaurant’s mint condition reflects not only her professionalism but also her genuine desire to make her guests feel welcome and appreciated.
Coming from East Africa myself, I understand the importance of hospitality and making guests feel at home, even in a foreign setting. So when Hewi offered to take a photo of us when the food arrived, I felt really appreciated. The highlight of my visit was when Hewi took the time to explain how to go about the experience, and she happily served us the food. This made me feel like I was home.
Mosob is a celebration of unity and culture, guided by the passionate vision of the founders
Even in moments of doubt, Hewi remained steadfast in her determination to persevere. When I asked about the challenges she faced while starting her business, she said, ‘It was very hard! If you say you can do it, you can do it. Whatever you say, you can do it!’
She leaned on her salon customers, harnessing the power of word-of-mouth and social media to spread the word about her restaurant. And, in a surprising turn of events, she found unexpected support from a Kenyan couple who also owned a restaurant in Glasgow, challenging the myth that migrants are inherently competitive with one another.
Today, Mosob is more than just a restaurant—it’s a symbol of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of perseverance. In its tranquil ambience and culinary delights, Mosob reminds us that with dedication, solidarity, and a dash of creativity, dreams can indeed come true.
While talking to Hewi, she encourages other entrepreneurs to go for it despite the challenges that they might face. “You have to take risks. If you are not taking risks, you cannot win!'”
Hewi Ghidey, co-founder of Mosob, is serving the food.
Moreover, Hewi’s commitment to family and community shines through in every aspect of her business. She is a proud mother; her son works in the restaurant, and her daughter works with her in the salon. Hewi insists that involving them in the family business from a young age instils responsibility and teaches valuable life skills.
She also recognises how being a leader means building a team and working together. The staff are valued, and she strives to make them feel appreciated and responsible for the venture. “Working together with one hand is important. I have never changed staff from the beginning”, she mentions. She adds that the team has become a family and encourages other entrepreneurs to serve and not boss in order to see success in their establishments.
Additionally, the prime locations of Hewi’s businesses serve as inspiration to other entrepreneurs who may be hesitant to share their culture openly. Hewi’s salon is conveniently located right outside Glasgow Central Station, while the black doors to Mosob are situated on Dundas Street, beside Glasgow Queen Street station. These prominent positions attract customers and serve as symbols of cultural pride and visibility in the city’s heart.”
It was a pleasure talking to Hewi, whose love for family, community, and personal development is palpable. She owns the salon and partners with her sister to run the successful business—a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of fostering strong familial and community bonds. In Hewi’s world, success is not just measured by financial gain but by the impact one makes on the lives of others and the legacy one leaves behind.
As diners continue to flock to Mosob, drawn by the promise of delicious cuisine and warm hospitality, Hewi’s journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere.
Her story is proof of the strength of the human spirit and the boundless possibilities that arise when one refuses to be defined by their circumstances.
For Hewi, the success of her restaurant portrays the power of food to bring people together and bridge divides.
In a world marked by division and discord, their establishment stands as a shining example of the transformative power of community and the beauty that emerges when we come together to celebrate our differences.
In the heart of Glasgow, amidst the clinking of glasses and the laughter of diners, Hewi’s vision lives on—a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.
It is a reminder that with determination, resilience, and a supportive community, anything is possible.
Laura Ndanuko is Migrant Women Press trainee journalist. She is passionate about community development, dedicate her time empowering women and amplifying stories of hope. Through storytelling, she aims aim to inspire others to join her in building a brighter future for all.